Boris Johnson taken into intensive care as coronavirus symptoms worsen

Boris Johnson taken into intensive care as coronavirus symptoms worsen

Prime Minister Boris Johnson has been moved to intensive care after his coronavirus symptoms worsened, Downing Street has confirmed.

The PM spent Sunday night in St Thomas's Hospital in London after he was admitted for tests.

The hospital, where he was taken as a "precautionary step" said he would stay there for "as long as needed".

On Monday afternoon, Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab said Mr Johnson would remain in charge of the Government, despite being under observation at hospital.

However, with news of his condition deteriorating, it is not certain whether he will be able to continue with his full ministerial duties, leaving Mr Raab to step-in and deputise where necessary.

A Number 10 spokesman said: "Over the course of this afternoon, the condition of the Prime Minister has worsened and, on the advice of his medical team, he has been moved to the intensive care unit at the hospital.

"The PM has asked Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab, who is the First Secretary of State, to deputise for him where necessary.

"The PM is receiving excellent care, and thanks all NHS staff for their hard work and dedication."

The Conservative Party leader is understood to be conscious and was moved to the ICU at about 7pm as a precaution should he require ventilation to aid his recovery.

The PM, 55, tested positive for the virus 10 days ago, on March 27, suffering with a persistent cough and a continuing high temperature.

He had been in self-isolation inside his Downing Street flat since.

Sharing several video updates since the diagnosis, he stepped outside to join the nationwide clap for key workers on Thursday evening.

However, Mr Johnson has not been seen publicly since, but spoke to new Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer on Saturday afternoon.

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